The NBA’s recent implementation of a 65-game requirement for league awards has sparked serious debate. It might cause an issue for Philadelphia 76ers‘ star Joel Embiid, who is one of the strongest contenders for MVP. Several have voiced their concerns over this issue. One of them is TNT crew member and former NBA player, Jamal Crawford. The new rule has been introduced by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver in collaboration with the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA). It will require the players to participate in at least 65 games to be eligible for prestigious honors like MVP and All-NBA. 

In a recent episode of TNT’s show, Crawford has highlighted the potential dangers posed by this rule to players. Expressing concern over Joel Embiid, Crawford highlighted that this could put a physical and mental toll on the players to meet the required quota. “I understand what the NBA is doing as far as, okay let’s get these guys playing. But not if Joel Embiid is hurt… So I’m just hoping it’s not serious,” Crawford said, “They don’t have to risk themselves and their livelihood to say I need to meet a quota to be eligible.”

Due to injuries, the 7x NBA All-Star has already missed 12 games. As per the rule, he can miss only 5 more games. Despite not being in his best condition, Embiid is determined to play to chase after the MVP award. Crawford and the rest of the TNT crew aren’t the only ones who are concerned. Previously, an Indiana Pacers star also raised his doubts about the rule.

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What does Tyrese Haliburton think about this new rule?

Indiana Pacers star, Tyrese Haliburton, also faces a similar challenge. The 23-year-old made 33 appearances this season. Furthermore, he has missed 13 games. He had to miss 11 out of the previous games because of his hamstring injury. He can miss just 3 more games to maintain his eligibility. 

When asked about it, Haliburton candidly expressed his views. During the interview with The Athletic, he said, “I think it’s a stupid rule, like plenty of other guys in the league, but this is what the owners want, so as players we gotta do our job and play in 65 games if we’re able to.”

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While Haliburton said that he has to follow the rule, the player also mentioned the financial factor included in it. Losing the spot on the All-NBA team might not prove beneficial for the player. What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments section below.

READ MORE: Jamal Crawford Reveals How Michael Jordan Became a Fan of His Game